Top Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh: 2026 Travel Guide

Sharm El Sheikh sits where the Sinai desert meets the coral-rich waters of the Red Sea — a rare combination of world-class diving, golden dunes and easy day trips to ancient Egypt. Whether you have three days or two weeks, here are the experiences worth building your holiday around.

1. Snorkel or dive Ras Mohammed National Park

Egypt’s first national park is a 20-minute boat ride from Sharm and home to some of the healthiest reefs on the planet. Expect walls of coral, turtles, rays and clouds of anthias. Beginners snorkel the shallows while divers drift Shark and Yolanda Reef. See our Red Sea snorkeling boat trip.

2. Take a full-day Red Sea boat trip

A relaxed day on the water — two snorkeling stops, lunch on board and sun on the deck — is the classic Sharm experience and perfect for families. Browse all our Red Sea boat trips.

3. Swim with wild dolphins

Trips to the “Dolphin House” reef at Sha’ab El Erg give you a good chance of meeting wild spinner dolphins in open water — a genuine bucket-list moment.

4. Ride the desert on a quad safari

As the sun drops, quad bikes and jeeps head into the Sinai interior for tea with the Bedouin, camel rides and a barbecue under an enormous starfield. See our desert safaris.

5. Watch sunset at Farsha Mountain Lounge

Carved into the cliffs of Hadaba, this maze of cushions, lanterns and sea views is the most photogenic spot in town for sunset, tea or shisha.

6. Take a day trip to Cairo and the Pyramids

You can stand before the Great Pyramid of Giza and be back at your hotel the same day. It’s the ultimate add-on to a beach holiday — read our Cairo day trip guide.

7. Explore the Old Market

Sharm’s Old Market (Sha’ab Moussa) is the place for spices, souvenirs, lamps and a strong Egyptian coffee — go in the evening when it comes alive.

Quick tips for Sharm El Sheikh

• Best time to visit: March–May and September–November for warm, comfortable weather.
• Water temperature: pleasant year-round; a shorty wetsuit is nice in winter.
• Getting around: most excursions include hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sharm El Sheikh good for families? Yes — calm reefs, shallow snorkeling, boat trips and short desert safaris all suit children.

How many days do you need? Five to seven days lets you combine the sea, the desert and a Cairo day trip without rushing.

Ready to plan? Browse all our Sharm El Sheikh excursions and message us on WhatsApp for a tailored itinerary.